Russia announced plans to strengthen its relationship with North Korea.

The White House and recent U.S. intelligence reports suggest the countries were actively advancing arms negotiations amidst Russia’s ongoing military involvement in Ukraine, adding a layer to the already foggy geopolitical landscape.

While the Kremlin did not confirm the exchange of letters between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, it acknowledged that “contacts are being made at various levels,” according to a Reuters report.

“Moscow and Pyongyang maintain good, mutually respectful relations. We intend to develop them further,” said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited North Korea in July, followed by a second delegation of Russian officials for further discussions on a potential deal.

Earlier this month, the U.S. imposed sanctions on three entities allegedly tied to arms deals between North Korea and Russia.

“We remain concerned that the DPRK continues to consider providing military support to Russia's military forces in Ukraine,” John Kirby, National Security Council strategic communications coordinator said to CNN.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, described Russia and North Korea’s alleged arms negotiation as “shameful” to CNN, and a violation of Security Council resolutions.

While both countries deny claims of an arms deal, ongoing negotiations and high-level discussions suggest otherwise.

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